Senate Resolution No. 1892

BY: Senator FAHY

RECOGNIZING 250 years of Polish-American
friendship in conjunction with the 250th Anniversary
of the American Revolution

WHEREAS, It is the sense of the Legislative Body to recognize and
pay just tribute to the cultural heritage of the ethnic groups that
comprise and contribute to the richness and diversity of the communities
of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, In keeping with its time-honored traditions, this
Legislative Body seeks to acknowledge and celebrate the enduring
contributions of Polish Americans, the rich heritage that illuminates
Poland's history and traditions, as well as the spirit of an indomitable
people; and to commend the Polish American Congress for its continued
efforts to preserve Polish culture, heritage, and identity while
promoting civic engagement and pride; and

WHEREAS, Relations between the Polish and American people have been
central to the national histories of both nations since the first Polish
settlers arrived in Jamestown, Virginia, in 1608, beginning centuries of
cooperation between what would become the United States of America and
the Republic of Poland; and

WHEREAS, Numerous Polish patriots fought in the American Revolution,
including General Tadeusz Kosciuszko, who arrived in the American
colonies in June, 1776 to support American revolutionaries in their
fight for liberty and oversaw the construction of fortifications in
places such as West Point and Bemis Heights (Battle of Saratoga); and
General Casimir Pulaski who is known as the "Father of the American
Cavalry" and is credited with having saved George Washington's life at
the Battle of Brandywine; and

WHEREAS, The bond between the United States of America and the
Republic of Poland has continued to strengthen through the centuries,
reflected in milestones such as the designation of October as Polish
American Heritage Month in 1986; Poland's accession to the North
Atlantic Treaty Organization in 1999, strengthening transatlantic
security and successfully fulfilling Poland's ambitious efforts to
transform its political system, economy, and military, and becoming one
of the United States' strongest allies in Europe; and

WHEREAS, Poland has demonstrated exceptional leadership on the
global stage in promoting global security and democratic values,
including its contributions to international security efforts in
Afghanistan and Iraq, its strong support for Ukraine in response to
Russia's 2022 invasion, and its role as a key NATO ally investing
significantly in defense and hosting United States military personnel to
strengthen regional stability; and

WHEREAS, Polish Americans have made lasting contributions to the
State of New York, enriching its communities through traditions in
language, cuisine, music, and the arts, while also playing vital roles
in commerce, labor, education, science, medicine, politics, and public

service; Polish American institutions, faith communities, and cultural
organizations have helped preserve a vibrant heritage that continues to
shape the identity of the State; and

WHEREAS, The people of this great State and Nation, and the people
of Poland enjoy a deep and abiding relationship rooted in kinship and
culture, with more than 750,000 New Yorkers proudly tracing their own
roots to Poland; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is pleased to have this opportunity
to recognize the significance of events which foster ethnic pride and
exemplify the cultural diversity that represents and strengthens the
fabric of the people and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
recognize the contributions of Poles and Polish Americans and their role
in the establishment of democracy in the United States of America;
affirm more than 250 years of support and friendship between the United
States of America and the Republic of Poland; and express its
appreciation to the Polish American Congress, the primary Polish
American organization in the United States, for its efforts to promote
Polish heritage and represent over 10 million Americans of Polish
descent; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Polish American Congress Central New York; the
Consulate General of the Republic of Poland in New York; and the Polish
American community of the State of New York.